SUMMERTIME TUNIC KAL

FO pic!

2007-08-30T07:46:00.001-07:00

I finished my tunic a LONG time ago, and posted about it, but I thought I'd include a pic since I finally got one of my sister wearing it (albeit a crappy cell phone pic, but you can see the tunic fairly well).
So here it is, my first garment, knit for my sister:

Help! Finishing!

2007-08-27T09:45:00.000-07:00

Please bear with me, this is my first garment ever, so of course even with the easiest stitch in the world, I'm still confused....I'm working on the back, and have finished shaping the armholes. I did my Purling on the Right Side (turning row) and the instructions say to continue in stockinette stitch.

Do I go right back into pattern -- since I'm on the wrong side now, do I start Purling again? I'm confused as to how the front should look, whether the stockinette should continue on the right side still, or on the wrong side? I know ultimately this will be the ribbon casing, and may not matter, but I would like to do it correctly. Thanks for any guidance you have!

Plugging Away

2007-08-12T17:26:00.000-07:00

First I want to say that those of you who have posted your finished tunics, they look stunning! It's wonderful to see so many beautiful varieties, and they look gorgeous on you all.

I have a bit of catching up to do now that I'm back from Italy - I've gotten past the ribbing (finally) and am onto the stockinette marathon.

(click to enlarge)

I think I'm finally hitting my stride, though, and I'd like to get this finished soon so I can wear it while there's still summer warmth. Who else is still working on theirs?

- Vicki

Still Knitting Away

2007-08-07T06:40:00.000-07:00

I started the Summertime Tunic in mid-June, and by the end of June had to take a break. This is my first garment, and I had a bit of difficulty on the ribbing, but my technique and recognition of stitches has gotten better. I'm finally into the long stretch of knit, knit, knit. I am determined to finish this by the end of this month even with it's imperfections. I actually don't hate the LionBrand Microspun yarn, either, I thought it may be troublesome, but it's not!

Is anyone else out there not yet finished?

The FO has arrived!!!!

2007-07-31T17:59:00.000-07:00

"Singing to the Rooftops" My Summertime Tunic is finaly finished! More pics on my blog.

Finished and Posted!

2007-07-24T20:51:00.001-07:00

Hey guys. Sorry I haven't kept you more up-to-date on my progress. I did finish this about two or three weeks ago but couldn't find the time to get a picture and post it. That's what you get for taking a summer college course in five weeks. But here it is:

Me posing in my drive way while my mother takes the picture.

Yarn: TLC Cotton Plus in3590 Lavender
Needles: Additurbo U.S. sizes 6 and 3

I had several issues with this including four inches in (about to start the ribbing) that I had twisted the entire piece. I almost died! But you move on. Otherwise it was alright. I do not know if I'd knit this again or not because, though it was easy, it was time consuming and the stockinette really got to me after a while. If I were to knit it again, I'd knit it in pure cotton (instead of a cotton/acrylic blend which surprised me when I read the label) and potentially knit it a bit smaller. I knit it for a 36" bust casting on 206 stitches. And though I enjoy this piece and wear it often (even though I just got the white ribbon today) I wish it were a bit tighter.

Hope you enjoy! Good luck to the rest of you!

Green T Knits

Finally Finished!

2007-07-23T17:00:00.000-07:00

I'm done - I finished last Wednesday but the weather's been so lousy I had to wait until yesterday to try and get a decent photo with some sunlight. It fits pretty well but the ribbing is too loose. I guess I should have gone done one more needle size. I still can't decide whether or not to put the beads on the ends of the ribbon or not. It's a rayon velvet so it's not very slippery. I enjoyed making this but I'm so glad to be done! LOL I will try to get a photo of me wearing it this weekend.

IK Summer Tunic

Elann Callista - 50% Viscose/25%Cotton/25% Linen in Tarragon

US 5 for body and US 3 for ribbing

Started 6/1/07

Finished 7/18/07

Ease

2007-07-19T16:25:00.000-07:00

Hi all! Well, I have finally weeded my way through some other projects and I am planning to start this weekend. I had a question though as far as ease that everyone is allowing. I'm a 35" and was planning on knitting the 33.5. Does that seem right? I'm wondering if I need adjust a bit for a bit less negative ease? Thanks!!!

Completed Tunic

2007-07-15T15:32:00.001-07:00

Well I finished my Summertime Tunic last week but just now got to take pictures of me wearing it. It ended up very big and I tried 3 times to shrink it but not much of a difference, I really like it Im just bummed its so big around the bottom, I may give it to my mom, but I cant decide cuz its so cute, Im not set on a ribbon yet either, I just chose this one so I could try it on, its a little rough, Id like something more smooth on my skin

Yarn: Debbie Bliss Cathay in Teal
Needles: circular 4 and 6
Mods: I casted on a number between the 33 and 36 inch size, I cant remember how much, I have it written down somewhere Im not sure of right now, Other than that I followed the rest of the instructions, except knitting the back on straights, so I didn't have to move stitches around

Here are some pix..enjoy!

Summertime Tunic Progress

2007-07-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

Here is what I've done on the summertime tunic so far. I'm currently working on the 11" after the ribbing. Wish me success!

Knitters-Delight

Sisyphus joins

2007-07-08T19:02:00.000-07:00

I wasn't going to knit the Summertime Tunic, but then my sister called me from Baltimore & said "let's knit it together" and of course I couldn't say no. I've chosen ella rae silkience, it was a new yarn at my lys & it felt so good & came in great colors, so I swatched & only had to go down one needle size to get gauge. I'm about 7 inches into the tunic, and at the endless rows of stockinette, great for tv watching or knitting group knitting! I'll post again when I'm done, or if you want to see what else I'm knitting, stop by my blog: Sisyphus Knits.

Better Late Than Never

2007-07-07T10:33:00.000-07:00

Well, I don't know if it's KAL appropriate or not but I just signed up for this KAL even though my top is done. Thank you Adrienne for letting me sign up after the fact!

I do love this pattern and am pleased with the way my Summertime Tunic turned out!I'm one happy knitter!Yarn: Reynolds, Gypsy. 100% cotton. 7 skeins.
Notes: The yarn was a bit 'stiff' to work with but once I finished and washed the piece it softened up. Kind of has a nice, denim-like finish.

Finished!

2007-07-06T05:36:00.000-07:00

I finished up the tunic last night.
Deets:
Supplies: Debbie Bliss Cathay yarn (cotton/silk/microfiber blend) in colorway 09. Denise interchangeables in sizes 6 and 5. Ribbon and beads.
What I learned: This was my first project in the round. This was my first garment of any kind. I learned how to whipstitch the casings closed and that it's a good idea to buy beads that the ribbon will actually fit through.
I don't have any action pictures, because I'm sending this one off to my sister, but here it is blocking/still slightly wet (the pictures look a little wonky but if you click them they are clear):

I will post action pics as soon as Sarah takes some!

New to KAL

2007-07-03T08:32:00.000-07:00

Hi,
Thank you for the invite to this KAL, I can't wait to get started. I ordered the yarn yesterday, it's Elann Sonata in the pecan colorway. I'll start as soon as i get it, hopefully by then my current project will finished: a round trip to Chicago-Minneapolis on the bus should do the trick (I'm meeting my boyfriend's parents for the first time, wish me luck).
Bye for now but i hope to post again very soon.

Marie

I am starting to see an end...

2007-07-02T17:18:00.001-07:00

LOL I finally started on the back yesterday after putting MUCH time into the stockinette this weekend. I am really going to focus on this as I'm feeling closer to being finished but I HAVE to go get some ribbon very soon as that's the last piece of the puzzle. Congrats to those who have recently finished - everyone looks really nice in their tunic which means this is a nice flattering piece for every body so far!

Sinfully comfy

2007-07-01T15:20:00.000-07:00

Maybe I need to make another one

first I thought it was just to big, but after washing and blocking the fit is just comfy and right.. love it.

All Done!

2007-07-01T12:17:00.000-07:00

I used the "invisible" straps bra, which I'm still getting used to.

Size needles used: 3 US
Yarn: The Village Spinning & Weaving Shop, 712 Spun Silk
I knit the largest size.

The End Is Near...

2007-06-28T12:27:00.001-07:00

Yay I just got to the front and back split, in what seemed like Fo-Eva, I was about 4 inches shy of it after yesterday so I went and sat out on my patio and tried to get a tan on my legs while knitting away, and I made it... I just left the front stitches on the circulars and started knitting the back with some 6 straights, so I dont have to take off and put stitches back on the needles like it says to

Im not sure if it will be too big, I cast on a number between the 33" and 37" since my size is between the two but it looks really big, I measured and its about 17" flat so 34" around which sounds fine but I guess we'll see in a few days,

I still have no idea what color ribbon to use, Ive seen a lot of chocolate brown which is great, I plan to take to the store and hold some different colors up to it to see what I like best, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated :0)

Should I pull out the calculator?

2007-06-27T10:19:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I've enjoyed reading your posts, seeing all the great fiber choices, and trying to figure out sizing issues so I can start my own. Using Classic Elite Premiere (the "dried cherry" color; it's less pink than the picture, more of a raspberry) and size 6 needles, I'm getting 20-21 stitches and 30 rows to 4 inches. My problem is, the 33.5" size is too small, and the 37.5" size is too big. With the gauge I'm getting, using the 33.5" directions would give me the right measurements... but that's not taking into account the stretch factor. So the question is:

Have you planned for any ease (negative or positive) when choosing a size? How much stretch did you plan for your tank? The Premiere is 50/50 cotton and tencel, and does seem to stretch just like a 100% cotton yarn would. I could either knit the smaller size and hope the larger gauge + stretch factor will take care of the size problem, or go down a needle size and knit the larger size. What do you think?

- Jenny

Armhole question.

2007-06-27T06:47:00.001-07:00

I should preface this by saying this is my first garment.
I started working on the back yesterday and am very confused about the armholes of this garment. I fold over and whipstitch the entire back and the entire front (in two sections), right? So what is left for the armholes and how do I thread the ribbon through in order to make the straps?
Maybe I'm just being super-dense and it will make sense once I get that far, I'm just confused -- if everything is folded over and whipstitched and no stitches are bound off than what is left?
*headdesk*

Started!!

2007-06-24T14:17:00.000-07:00

Hi! I just bought my yarn at Michaels today. I am using Lion Brand Microspun in French Vanilla. I also bought my sixes. I am having to order the fours off of Knit Picks. I was wondering what it would do if I just used the sixes all the way through. Any thoughts? I am about to start the first row of the tunic and then I will be off. It won't take me long to knit the four and a half inches so that's why I wonder.

Thanks!
Sarah

At LAsT

2007-06-24T11:17:00.000-07:00

I'm done...

Sorry, my photographer wasn't available, but you can see detail shots here.

Stay motivated everyone, I can't wait to see more FO's.

a quick introduction

2007-06-24T10:04:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! While I was posting in my own blog, I found the Summertime Tunic KAL and I became very excited! You will be my very first KAL! As you can see by my many exclamation marks, I am very excited.

Really, I should stop talking and just show you some pictures:

There is about six inches finished.

A close up of the ribbing.

I haven't been working on it for days because the mindlessness of it really got to me so I decided to knit a pair of Fetching gloves and I'm working on a pair of socks right now. I've been taking summer classes and I knit during my four hour class (I get about an inch or two finished by the end of the four hours) and that tends to be the only time I'm working on the Summertime Tunic.

I hope you all enjoy! I'll try to work on it some more so I'm not the last one to finish. But I do have a question for all of you reading this. This is a lavender colored cotton yarn, what do you think would be a good color or type of ribbon, thread, etc. to wear with this? Also, I have never washed hand knit cotton items, what is the best way to wash these types of items?

Thank you for any help you will give!

Done!

2007-06-22T16:25:00.001-07:00

I'm done! I finished it a couple days ago but my daughter wasn't home. Here she is modeling it.

The front view

The back view

I should have knit another inch for under the arms but other than that, it's ok. :)

Robyn

Yarn has Arrived

2007-06-22T08:04:00.000-07:00

My yarn has already arrived from Elann.com! I'm so excited. Now I'm just waiting for my new Knit Picks changeable circular set to arrive. If it's not at my house when I go home, I'll just cast on with some 6s I currently have and then "upgrade" once they arrive.

Knitters-Delight

More progress shots

2007-06-22T05:26:00.000-07:00

This is the where I am at on my tunic.

I finished the back last night and now I am on working the 2 sides of the front piece, I hope to be done by tomorrow.

and this is the beads and ribbon I plan to use for it

Almost to the finish line!

Casting on & saying hello

2007-06-21T09:10:00.000-07:00

Hi there - a newbie to the KAL - as soon as I saw this I knew I had to knit it up. Dashed out to buy Rowan Luxery Cotton DK immediately - this is a perfect project for knitting meetups!

The yarn is totally sumptious [click the pic on top for an extreme close-up] however a wee bit splitty. Not splitty exactly ... it's just that there are very distinct strands and with the fibres used they won't stitck to each other, so it's quite easy to accidently make extra stitches when not paying attention [like at a knitting meetup!]

Anyways- the colour at the bottom is more true, and I have to finish Icarus before I get to the ribbing, as it has the size needles I need for that bit and I'm trying to be strong and not buy too much.

Inching along

2007-06-20T18:48:00.000-07:00

Well, I've reached three inches above the ribbing and I must say the going feels quite slow. And I'm also concerned about having to post a completed photo after seeing all the skinny arms and great shapes in finished tanks. I sure hope I'm not the only pleasingly plump knitter working on this! LOL I may have to start lifting weights in between stockinette rounds.....

I'm Finished!

2007-06-19T14:22:00.000-07:00

I'm finished, done, finito...woo hoo! Crazy, party of one? That's me right here. LOL

;) Bren

Some notes:

~ I, like Rosann, didn't work the front split pieces at the same time with 2 balls of yarn...I did one side to completion and then did the other.

~ I used size 6 and 4 needles to get the gauge correct. I did switch to flexible needles after the stitches were separated into front and back since my cord was bugging me.

~ For now I'm using white ribbon (remember the bra post??) and I noticed that the bra is not the center of attention. I'm thinking I can change out the ribbon if I want a different look.

~ The yarn is Elann's Sonata. This is basically just a mercerized cotton. I think it worked great. If you want more sheen though, use Tahki Cotton Classic as this one is a little matte. Also, I had an extra skein left over.

~ I made it a few inches longer after I knit the ribbing, just as a personal preference.

Once I choose some beads I'll post another pic. Good Luck to everyone else!

Intros

2007-06-19T08:53:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone,

I've just joined this KAL and am very excited. I have just purchased yarn from Elann.com for this project. I think it'll be a nice and easy knit. This will be my first time adding ribbon to any of my knit projects, so even though it's an easy project, it'll be a good learning experience. The color is called dappled sunlight which has green and gold tones to it. I think the either a chocolate ribbon or deep sage color will work well. I'll have to start looking for some soon as elann has been great with speedy deliveries so far.

Feel free to check me out at my blog.

Progress pic.

2007-06-18T17:03:00.001-07:00

I made it past the ribbing today and am back to miles and miles of stockinette. Here's a recent picture:

YAY!
I'm on the lookout for a chocolate brown ribbon.

2007-06-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

Time to Untangle

Just wanted to give you all an update before I begin the daunting task of untangling the rest of the yarn being used for this project. The yarn was originally intended for another tank that came with sort of difficult instructions. After encountering numerous issues while trying to wind the yarn into a ball, I decided to put that project on hold. This is the how much progress I've made so far. The second image is how the yarn looks out in the sun.

Since this project is so simple, I took the opportunity to unburden my stash. But wait, this is still the same yarn. Let's review the issues I'm having now.

I swear I went down a needle size for the ribbing. It's not syncing at the waist the way that it should. This shouldn't be a major problem on a pear-shaped person as my self, so I'll continue on. I think this occurred because the yarn has absolutely no elasticity, but I'm not sure. I also don't like the fact that the ribbing kinda disappears in the variegated pattern. I like that little detail.

The yarn is full of what I call BS joins. In some places it seems like some sore of gelatinous compounds were used. It's not very effective.

Some holes have resulted when the BS yarn joins failed.

There are also several snaggy strands. I've been able to hide most of them except this one.

So, I'll be close by happily watching the progress of you all, but because the sheer volume of untangling necessary, I expect to be the last one to post a finished product. Ciao for now!

Hi!

2007-06-17T05:36:00.000-07:00

Hi ya'll I am Sarah from down in Bama. I have just bought my Interweave Knits magazine and I am planning on ordering the needles today or tomorrow. I was wondering how many skeins it will take of Lion Brand Microspun to knit this tunic. I have to plan out how much baby-sitting money I will be spending! lol. If someone could help me with that I would be very glad!

Everyone's tunics are so pretty and I can't wait to start mine!

Sarah

2007-06-15T13:11:00.000-07:00

Eh-Hem!!

There's not anyone in this KAL talking about how they're going to deal with their boobs in this tank. All the tanks I buy have shelf bras, and I'd rather not wear this one I bought with invisible straps. Not wearing some kind of support is not an option for this mother of two.

got gauge? Nope!

2007-06-15T05:54:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, just joined the group on Tuesday! I'm Lisa and I've been knitting only since February, and this is my first garment. I'm looking forward to my first knitting in the round, and will be making the Summertime Tunic. I decided to go with the Lion Brand Microspun Yarn in Leaf, even after reading about others difficulties with it. It fit my price range, and I figure if it comes out well, I can tackle another one.

I'm working on my second guage swatch, the first one on 6s was too small, and I know I am a very tight knitter (will I ever learn to loosen up?). Now I'm trying 8s and will post once I've actually begun the tunic. Keep up all the great work, your pictures are motivating me!

Keep it Rolling

2007-06-14T15:55:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone

well,,, I have made some progress since my last unfortunate post. I am at 8 inches above the ribbing (since Sunday), and I feel like my second wind has kicked in, I am going to finish this, it is not going in my project basket or a bag, lol

I've been knitting during my lunch hour and an hour in the morning and an hour or 2 before I go to sleep and its working.

thanks to Rosann's FO, I am inspired again.

YAY!

Progress Report

2007-06-14T08:03:00.001-07:00

LOL....I will do ten rows (HOPEFULLY) everyday, so hopefully tomorrow, I will post another pic....HOPEFULLY! LOL

Progress so far

2007-06-13T16:39:00.001-07:00

Well, I finally made it past the ribbing this morning and it's back to plain jane stockinette. This has been a great "mindless" knitting piece for when I'm really tired at night. Seeing everyone else's progress is encouragement to keep on going.

2007-06-13T13:36:00.001-07:00

I started the tunic 6/10/07.

Here's mine so far in a 100% silk yarn I've named African Sunset. Half of the ribbing is done.

Just started!

2007-06-13T07:18:00.001-07:00

100_2066
Originally uploaded by Renee Antoinette

I just started the Summertime Tunic on Sunday (while watching The Tonys). This is my first hand knit top and I am anxious to see how it will turn out. I am using Elann Sonata in Victorian Rose with size 5 and size 3 needles.

Now I just want someone to design a cardigan to match so I can wear this year round!

Renee

Sidetracked

2007-06-12T10:24:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I began my Tunic several weeks ago, but got stalled while finishing up another project. Here's where I am so far.

I'm using some Lion Brand Microspun in silver I had stashed from forever ago. The yarn seems to have a nice drape, but the splittiness is killing me. From here on it's just endless stockinette, so hopefully I can get to the neck part soon. I'm enjoying seeing everyone's progress, and all the different yarns being used.

~ aquaknits

Finished

2007-06-10T19:28:00.001-07:00

I just finished my tunic today.

Additional Photos:

Back View
Ribbon Detail

Some notes:

This was a super easy, mindless knit. I zoned off knitting the Stockinette St main portion while watching countless hours of Man vs. Wild and Reign the Conqueror.
I substituted the S. Charles Collezione Kyoto with Rowan Calmer in Drift. In retrospect, this was not a good idea. Although Calmer has a stitch gauge very close to Kyoto, it knits up more like a worsted weight rather than a DK weight. The result is something less drapey and slightly thicker than I would have liked . In short, I don't recommend using Calmer.
I used US 7s for the larger needles and 6s for the ribbing.
I didn't knit the front split pieces simultaneously by joining a new ball of yarn; I just finished one side and then worked on the other.
I originally made a turning row on the very bottom with the intention of hemming up the rolled bottom, but it turns out I don't mind the rolled bottom much, so I didn't hem it after all.
I used 1/4" ribbon doubled instead of 3/8" ribbon.
No beads. I'm not a bead kind of person. :)

Good luck to the rest of you on your tunics! I'll be sticking around some to look for some FOs. :D

The Rip back

2007-06-10T08:00:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone,
I started the summertime tunic on Memorial day but the all that stockinette stitch slowly wore my out so I put it down to pick up another project, eh hem,, lace work, lol

But I have to get this one done so I picked it up again, got to like 4 inches above the ribbing and realized that I didn't measure the height of the ribbing, so I did 1.5 inches instead of 2.
so what happened?
I know for a fact that on my bigger needles which I'm using for the stockinette, I got 1 inch per 7 rows, so when I switch needles I neglected to measure the ribbing because I thought that 14 rows will give me 2 inches,,,,, not quite, as I laugh at myself now.

smaller needles, different gauge, different measurements

so back to the drawing board, I know, such a silly mistake, but such is life.

Thanks for posting all the progress shots, I need all the motivation I can get, this stockinette is killing me.

New to KAL!

2007-06-10T04:56:00.001-07:00

Hello all, my name is Pixie and I'm just starting this. I'm a newish knitter, and this will be my first garment, so I'm pretty excited about it. I'm using Debbie Bliss Cathay and size 6 circs. I have about an inch or so more to go before I get to the ribbing section:

Making Progress...

2007-06-07T11:13:00.001-07:00

So here's where I'm at. I finally feel like I'm getting some- where! The color of the yarn is a lot less purple and a lot more blue than Elann's website depicted it. (See my older post) Truth be told, I like it better. It will look AWESOME with jeans. The darkest color is definitely denim colored. I still haven't found a ribbon to go with it. The yarn has less sheen than say, Tahki cotton classics, so I'm wondering what kind of ribbon to choose...any ideas? Can't buy the beads until I've chosen the ribbon. *sigh* That's what I like about this pattern...it uses yarn, ribbon and beads. Multi-crafty, I tell ya!

Happy Knitting,
Bren

How's everyone doing?

2007-06-07T05:07:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd post to see where everyone else is. I just started the ribbing portion--yeah!! It's only taken me a WEEK to get to that point LOL!!! I just don't have the time I'd like to spend knitting, but I'm taking it with me to every ball game and event where I just sit and listen/watch so I can make some progress. I'm hoping to have it done by July 4th, and if it's earlier I'll surprise myself! Where are you at?

Progress so far

2007-06-03T17:57:00.000-07:00

I've got about 2.5 inches knit so far. Today I went to buy size 3 Addi Turbos and the shop only had bamboo needles so I bought those but I'm going to look for Addi's online or at the Maine Fiber Frolic next weekend. This is such an easy knit compared to the Lotus Tank that is my other project!

I went to a bead store while I was in Portland today and came home with three different pairs of beads that might work for the ends of the ribbon. Of course I haven't picked the ribbon yet so they might have to be saved for something else. Has anyone decided on that yet?

Got Gauge?

2007-06-01T18:23:00.000-07:00

I got my gauge finally using my Addi Turbo 5s. Now I'm wondering if I will need to use #3s for the ribbing since the pattern called for 6s and 4s? What does everyone think? I will probably cast on tomorrow or Sunday as I'm just too tired tonight!

First Progress pic

2007-06-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

I just started on the 1x1 rib last night and only a few rows into it, before this I was working on some lace projects, its so nice to be able to just mindlessly knit without thinking about what I am doing, its a nice break from harder patterns, well here is a progress pic for your viewing pleasure, this yarn is great but I keep having that problem where the yarn coming from the ball gets all twisted on itself, is there any solution for that?

so I also am posting on craftster, would it be to much to post in both places or is everyone here?

Finally

2007-05-31T23:15:00.000-07:00

Firstly i just wanted to shout "Happy halfway Year to everyone!" Wow it sure has flown by.

Anyways, back on the knitting front. After four attempts at this circular knitting thing i finally figured out what i was doing wrong. I had the stitches and working yarn in my left hand instead of my right. I cant believe how much of a difference it makes....lol. It looks like i am now on the right road to knitting this Tunic.

I was just wondering who of us are English knitters like me and who of you are Continental knitters?

Have a great Friday everyone.

**** So i have just seen that it is not yet June 1st for most of my american friends but hey it is here in Britian.

I'm going to have to swatch again!

2007-05-31T17:27:00.000-07:00

Well, my gauge on 6s is 5 per inch so I'm going to cast on with 5s and see what I get. I usually knit very tightly but I've been trying to relax and evidently it's working! LOL I am hopeful I can get gauge with the 5s and start on Saturday - I feel so far behind and it's not even June 1! LOL Patti

an update on my progress

2007-05-31T17:19:00.000-07:00

here is my tank, in hempathy chocolate... i have about four or five rows. on size 6US (boyes interchangeables)

when i get a few more rows in i am going to put It on two needles and check for twists. I hate to start over again. if i have to, i will just knit the first 2-3 rows, then join... fingers crossed !

-jeanie

Howdy

2007-05-31T17:11:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody, I'm Sally and I like to knit. The minute I saw this pattern, I knew I would make it, and the minute I saw this KAL, I knew I would join it. So there you go. Can't wait to see everyone's FOs. Let's have fun!

I'll be making mine in Hempathy in the Cool Blue colorway. I should be receiving my yarn in the next few days. Yay!

Talk to you guys soon.

so sad.

2007-05-30T09:51:00.000-07:00

i was knitting along with my so soft lionbrand microspun in black. nice fabric, pretty stitches. i had 14 rows done and decided to switch to my new boyes interchangables since i bent my circs the tank was on. the closer i got to finishing the switch the more it looked like it was twisted. oh no! crap, it was, and i don't know how i missed that. so i frogged the whole thing! :(

i re-cast on with chocolate hempathy. i have about four rows. i was super extra careful this time. fingers crossed. i am gonna wait and move all the stitches on two circs to strech it out and check again. *sigh*

Ready to go

2007-05-30T09:50:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. I thought I should introduce myself. My name is Megann and I live in southern Orange County, CA. My yarn came in the mail yesterday. I went with Knit Picks CotLin. They only had two colors available when I ordered so I went with Fiesta Pink... and oh boy is it pink! I'm looking forward to starting tomorrow. It will be fun to see all the different versions in the KAL. A big thanks to Adrienne for getting this organized.

I started!

2007-05-29T00:40:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I know that i am a little early to start this but i couldn't wait any longer. The thing is, is that this morning i saw Adriennes post and now i have a few questions...lol. This will teach me for getting ahead of myself.

1. With circular needles are you supposed to knit all the way round so its one continuous piece or do you knit it from one end to the other so it is more like a straight line than a circle - my beginnerness is so totally showing - lol.

2. Stitch markers - Do you move them along as you knit more rows as i haven't been. I just have one at the very first row on my knitting.

Oh dear - i feel Frogging coming on already.

Just a little progress

2007-05-28T17:57:00.000-07:00

I had to put down Rusted Root because it was working my nerves lol, this was my progress on Friday. I'm about 30% through it now...

Happy Knitting!

Yet another new member!

2007-05-28T08:12:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone!

Just joined (obviously) and figured I'd introduce myself.

My name's Trine, I'm 18 and live in Denmark, and I LOVED the Summertime Tunic ever since I saw it for the first time in the new IK mag (which, btw, is so worth every penny), but since I have quite a few projects on my needles at the moment, I didn't want to start another one.
But you probably know the feeling; what's another project, right? ;)

I've got a gift certificate that I'm going to use tomorrow to buy some contrast yarn for a sweater I'm working on, but there'll be plenty left over - probably enough to buy yarn for this project! :) I'm thinking of using Garnstudio's Safran, because it's cheap and the yardage's good, the gauge is almost spot-on (23 spi instead of 22 spi, but I'm a smaller bust than 33½", so it's all good) - but it's 100% cotton. Egyptian cotton, but nevertheless. I've never used this before, and normally I'd just make it in wool, but I want something I can actually use during the summer! ;)

Is anyone else using 100% cotton? I'm concerned about the sag-factor and the drape...
I've got my eye on some 50/50 cotton/acrylic as well, but I really like Garnstudio's yarns - it's not expensive, and so far I've only had good experiences with their yarns.

Anyway, can't wait to get started. :)

Trine xx

Just Joined!

2007-05-27T08:17:00.000-07:00

Hi all, just joined this KAL. Actually, this is my first KAL. I've wanted to make this tunic ever since I saw it in IK, so it will be fun to knit w/company! Thanks again, Adrienne.

Update: I've just ordered my yarn. I went with Elann's Sonata Print in Lilac Medley. I've never used this yarn, but from what I've read about it, it should be a good substitution.

Buy yarn here

~Bren

Question about Circular needles

2007-05-26T08:29:00.000-07:00

How do you straighten out your circular needles? I have been soaking the cable part in very hot water and then straigtening the bend with my hands. While it does help straighten them for the most part, when I picked them up this morning, they had returned to their usual "curl". Arghhhh.... Anyone have a tip or trick they would like to share? I'm planning to swatch for my gauge as this arrived yesterday!

Swatch

2007-05-23T03:31:00.000-07:00

So yippee, my knitting needles arrived a few days ago and last night i decided to get out my wool and do a little swatch. At first i was a little worried about the size of the needles - I have never used ones that are so small, but my swatch turned out ok and looks to be the right gauge so Yay for me. Here is a picture of my swatch half way through....I love the colour and the knit of this yarn/wool so cant wait to get started.

Joining in!

2007-05-22T18:31:00.000-07:00

Hi all - I finally gave in and signed up for this KAL. I ordered my yarn today too - Elann Callista in the Tarragon colorway. I can't wait to get the yarn and get started. It will be wonderful to have so many others able to answer questions and encourage us along!

My yarn

2007-05-21T11:32:00.000-07:00

Here's what I'm planning to use - it's much brighter in person--pink, fuschia, lilac & purple!

some inspiration

2007-05-21T06:07:00.000-07:00

Apparently there is no errors, I had suspected that because it is literally a SAK, but check the FO out.

She did a great job right?

Switching needle sizes in pattern

2007-05-20T21:34:00.001-07:00

I was reading through the pattern and where you have to change needle sizes, if you don't have interchangeables, I assume you would have to put all your stitches on the smaller circ first before continuing to knit? I always have to go down a size or 2 in my knitting so I'll be doing it on size 5 and 3's, and they don't make interchangeables for the 3's--at least I couldn't find them.

I just ordered Addi Natura (bamboo) circs, I think the Turbos would be too slick for the cotton/nylon ribbon yarn I'm going to use. Thanks!

Also, if someone can guide me how to post a pic, I'll post my yarn :) Thanks!

Holly

Yippee, I got my yarn

2007-05-20T12:48:00.000-07:00

I got my yarn in the mail yesterday, I started a swatch to pick out my needles, right now I only have a #5 circular thats long enough, and I want to try it before I go out and buy another set of circulars, though, I dont think I have anymore that are smaller, so I'll have to buy some anyway for the waist part, okay here it is....... DB cathay in Teal

2007-05-20T10:04:00.000-07:00

Yay..I just ordered my Elann Sonata today! This is my first KAL and I'm looking forward to it! I can't wait to start.

Finally..... Yarn porn

2007-05-18T12:56:00.000-07:00

gosh, I finally can post my yarn for this tunic.

Elann sonata in peacock green

Thanks for joining everyone, this will be fun

Hello Everyone!!

2007-05-18T11:44:00.001-07:00

Im so excited, this is my first official KAL, I ordered some debbie bliss cathay in teal, should be getting it soon, cant wait to cast on, then I'll be sure to post some pix. Happy Knitting!

Done

2007-05-18T06:37:00.000-07:00

OK ladies - I have now ordered my knitting needles for the tunic. Hopefully they will be here by monday or tuesday and then i can do my swatch.

Hello all!

2007-05-18T04:28:00.001-07:00

I am really looking forward to this one! I am still trying to figure out which yarn to use. I am think of using calmer. I think I'm going to alter the straps a bit so they cover my bra straps though. I may sew in one of those tanks with a built in braunder the tank and ribbon. Can't wait to see how thee look!

Rachel

I'm joining too

2007-05-17T05:21:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, this will be my second wearable top--currently have Cleo on the needles, so can't wait to finish and get started on this. Think I'm going to go with either some King Tut cotton in burgundy or Berroco Zen cotton/nylon ribbon in a pretty purple/pink mix--I'll swatch first and see what I like best. I'm excited to start this--thanks, Adrienne!

Just started tonight!

2007-05-15T19:59:00.000-07:00

I picked out my own Mother's Day gift and seeing as how I am a little "off" the garden these days I decided to postpone my typical trip to the local nursery and instead pick a knitting pattern and make something for me (other than socks) now that I've lost so much weight. I'd fallen in love with the Summertime Tunic in the latest Interweave Knits and so a trip to the local LYS was in order. I still have not looked at anything in the magazine besides this pattern! I didn't want to knit it up in DK and wanted to make it larger (to fit my..um..ample..um..girls) and roomier because I intend to wear it over a bathing suit or tank. Happily we found K2Ctoo's, 2nd Time Cotton to be the perfect worsted weight substitute and in a lovely beachy colorway called Nantucket. I cast on tonight and am already an inch in and happily knitting in circles-except for when I am itchy. Nothing completely takes my mind off the itchy. Sigh. Oh and the other neat thing is at only $6.50 a skein and 180 yards on each it's a very reasonably priced tank at that!! I look forward to seeing what everyone else is doing!

pretty yarn p0rn

2007-05-15T17:12:00.000-07:00

everyones yarn choices are so pretty! i love all the different colors. this will be great seeing all the different tops.

got my yarn!

2007-05-15T16:14:00.000-07:00

now I just need to purchase the needles and I'll be set!

Hi everyone.

2007-05-15T12:52:00.000-07:00

I've just joined this knitalong. Thanks for the invite. I'm not sure what yarn I'm going to use yet - thinking about Debbie Bliss Cotton Cashmere or Cotton DK or perhaps some Jo Sharp yarn.

Looking forward to seeing all your progress.

Angie

Wool and Question

2007-05-15T05:35:00.000-07:00

So this is the wool that I will be using. I am not sure about all its properties etc but it looks nice which is mainly why i chose it...lol
I have a question about the swatch? Do we need to knit it using the circular needles or can we just use straight needles that are the same size?

Thanks everyone

I got my yarn! YAY!

2007-05-13T17:59:00.000-07:00

Ok, now I ordered my yarn from Elann.com Like on, Wednesday and it was waiting for me on Friday when I got home! WOO HOO! I really like it and can't wait to knit up a swatch. One thing I did notice. The pictures of the yarn on the site is VERY dull compared to the ACTUAL color of the yarn. It is VERY rich, and VERY vibrant. So there ya have it! Happy Knitting! I can't wait to start on this one!

Adrienne

Hi there

2007-05-13T11:50:00.000-07:00

Hi ladies,

This will be the second item that i have knitted so might need a little help along the way. So excited to start. I have bought my wool - beautiful shade of blue but i do still need to get the needles so will be doing that on saturday!

JUST JOINED!!!

2007-05-13T05:02:00.000-07:00

Hi everybody, Adrienne, thank you for the invite. I will probably be using Elan Sonata. Will see have to decide yet. Exciting!!! I will be making this top for me. Maria

New to KAL

2007-05-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

I'm Robyn and I'm so excited for this KAL. I'm making this for my daughter's birthday. She will be 11. I'm using RH Baby Soft is blue...had to go with a cheaper yarn due to budget constraints. So glad to be a part of this!

Robyn

new to KAL

2007-05-12T09:04:00.000-07:00

Hi! I am excited about this tank! it is so cute and simple. I am using lionbrand microspun in black and so far it is knitting up great. I didn't do a guage swatch, but i figured if its a little loose thats ok :) I have some chocolate hempathy laying around.........

Yarn Ordered!

2007-05-11T06:15:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! I ordered my yarn the other day! YAY! I got Elann Sonata in Coffee Bean I will let you guys know as soon as I get it! YAY! lol

Just joined the KAL

2007-05-10T20:29:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

I'm glad that a KAL's been started for this tank top. :) I'll be substituting the recommended yarn with Rowan Calmer in Drift. The yarn's weight is just slightly heavier, but I'll be giving it a go anyway.

Some Yarn Subs

2007-05-07T19:35:00.000-07:00

Hi hi,

I'm very excited to get started on this, and thank you both for setting up this KAL!

I found a few really affordable substitute yarns and thought it would behoove me to share:

Elann Callista, viscose rayon, cotton & linen

Elann Quechua, alpaca/tencel

Elann Sonata, 100% cotton

KnitPicks CotLin, cotton/linen - available 5/31

and for the super budget-conscious (like me) Red Heart Soft Baby

I should add as a disclaimer that I'm a grad student, so yes, I really search for inexpensive yarns.

- Vicki

Yarn Sale

2007-05-07T08:37:00.000-07:00

Hi guys! The recommended yarn for the Summertime Tunic is S. Charles Collezione Kyoto. It is on sale now HERE until the end of the month if you want to use this.

That's all for now!

Adrienne

Welcome

2007-05-06T04:39:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

This Knitalong is going to start officially on June 1 2007, the pattern can be found at Interweave knits, its a free downloadable file. However before we all begin, feel free to post about you yarn recommendations and substitutions and introduce yourself.
If you want to join, contact Adrienne, this will be so much fun!

toya